I love film history. While I end up with a new list of “must see films” each time, it is the connections to psychological and sociopolitical environments of that time period that speaks volumes. Cinema is first and foremost an art form, yet it is an art form that more often than not gives deep reflections of society – often even ahead of its time.
When I saw director Elvis Mitchell’s Is That Black Enough For You?!? was having its World Premiere at this year’s New York Film Festival, it was immediate must-see on my list. And it does not disappoint. Cohesively compiled and extensively knowledgeable, Is That Black Enough For You?!? reaches beyond its proposed and validated thesis that the 1970s was the best decade for Black cinema.
Assertive and Refusing to Ask For Permission
Honestly, Is That Black Enough For You?!? could have been a docuseries there is so much packed into every moment of its two-and-a-half-hour runtime. And while many documentaries would fall under the weight presented here, Is That Black Enough For You?!? soars. From its first opening moments, the documentary presents itself as assertive and refusing to ask permission. Furthermore, it does not feel bloated or inflated, each piece of history and information surrounding it is carefully curated to deliver the most comprehensive experience possible.
Is That Black Enough For You?!? is also immediately welcoming to a diverse audience. Whether you are new to Black cinema or a fan from the start, Is That Black Enough For You?!? welcomes viewers, offering its first third of the film to present the history leading up to the historic decade of the 1970s. Though, it is not just its openness and awareness of its audience’s potential level of knowledge. Giving time to present the history of Black cinema prior to the 1970s, the film establishes the credibility of its filmmaker, while further establishing the build-up to why the 1970s was the best decade.
Potential for a docuseries
When the film reaches its destination, kicking off with Gordon Parks‘ widely successful film Shaft, Is That Black Enough For You?!? does not hold back. It dives into the decade with passion and devotion, covering as much as it can, balancing both visuals, talking heads, and information with ease.
One of my biggest worries going into my screening of the film was its runtime. At two and a half hours, concern lingered on how long it could maintain its audience’s attention. And to be honest, I was left with a desire for more as it reached its final moments. Is That Black Enough For You?!? finds its end at and around 1978, when dropping box office sales provided Hollywood with an excuse to lower the amount of Black cinema it funded and released. Four decades have passed, and while the film dives heavily into its roots, there is little attention to what followed – something I wish it had included and would have been the perfect bookend to a well-crafted documentary.
Conclusion:
Not a detriment to the film overall, it speaks to the reach the film is able to garner from its audience. As Is That Black Enough For You?!? concludes, it will leave you wanting more – to learn more. I wanted more of the documentarian’s perspective and knowledge. I wanted to hear from the film’s various talking heads for a further perspective on both the past and the present. It speaks volumes when a filmmaker can reach its audience, inspiring them to speak out more. And with Elvis Mitchell‘s Is That Black Enough For You?!?, it does just that.
Have you seen Is That Black Enough For You?!?? What were your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below!
Watch Is That Black Enough For You?!?
Does content like this matter to you?
Become a Member and support film journalism. Unlock access to all of Film Inquiry`s great articles. Join a community of like-minded readers who are passionate about cinema - get access to our private members Network, give back to independent filmmakers, and more.